People with flu normally feel very unwell for two or three days, and will continue to experience symptoms for around another five days. After that, you may feel tired and run down for a further two or three weeks.

The most common symptoms of flu are:

• a sudden fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F)

• headache

• chills

• runny or stuffy nose

• tiredness

• aching muscles

• dry cough

• sore throat

Symptoms of a cold

Symptoms of a cold can include:

• runny or blocked nose

• sneezing

• sore throat

• cough

Treatments

Treating flu

Most people recover effectively from flu by resting at home, although you should see your GP if you: